Apple VS Epic Result: Apple must allow developers to link to other payment systems

In 2021, the lawsuit between Apple and Epic Games has attracted much attention. Although Apple won on most of the charges, the judge ruled that Apple should relax its App Store anti-bootstrap policy. This means developers, such as Epic Games, will be allowed to include links to alternative payment systems in their apps. This ruling is considered to be of great significance in promoting fair competition and open markets. Apple will need to adjust its policies to accommodate this change and provide developers with more choice and autonomy. The incident triggered a broader discussion about the regulation and antitrust issues of the App Store.

##U.S. Supreme Court rejects Apple appeal

Although Apple appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court seeking a delay in enforcement, the Supreme Court today declined to consider the appeal, namely This means that the original judgment will be upheld. In recent years, Apple's App Store has faced regulatory pressure from the government due to its monopoly position in the iPhone software ecosystem.

Changes the Apple-Epic lawsuit decision will bring

Apple currently takes a 15% to 30% commission from its in-app purchase system and requires developers to use this system. Apple also prohibits apps from providing customers with information about alternative payment methods. However, the latest lawsuit decision allows apps to inform users of other payment options and provide a direct link to the app's website. This means developers can earn more through alternative payment methods without having to pay Apple's commission.

Apple may still require developers to share commissions

However, the situation is not that simple, as Apple may still require developers to share commissions. In the Netherlands, for example, dating apps are allowed to use alternative payment methods, but Apple still requires developers to pay a commission equal to 27% of revenue.

Rulings of various governments on Apple’s forced IAP

So far, governments have ruled that it is illegal for Apple to force developers to use IAP, but they have not said that it is illegal for Apple to collect commissions through other methods . In the European Union, the Digital Markets Act (DMA) will take effect this spring and will bring more significant changes to the way Apple operates the App Store. The DMA will require Apple to allow apps to be installed from outside the App Store, and it appears that these apps will be able to circumvent Apple's rules entirely.

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